In memoriam: Michael K. Herndon, director of summer and winter sessions

Michael K. Herndon, a dedicated educator, administrator, and Hokie whose nearly three decades of service shaped the academic journeys of countless students, passed away Thursday, Feb. 5.

Herndon served in the Division of Enrollment Management within the Office of the University Registrar as director of summer and winter sessions from 2008 until his passing. In that role, he was instrumental in expanding academic access and opportunity, supporting students as they advanced toward timely degree completion through innovative session planning and student-centered leadership. He was instrumental in the development and implementation of Virginia Tech’s first Winter Session and the Summer Start program, formerly known as Summer Academy.

Prior to joining Enrollment Management, Herndon spent more than a decade in the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, where he served as director of undergraduate studies from 1997-2008. His connection to the department began in 1995, when he joined Virginia Tech as a graduate assistant. He later served as an academic advisor from 1997-2001 before being named assistant director in 2001. In 2002, he was promoted to director and assistant professor (non-tenure track), a role he held until 2008.

Across each position, Herndon was known for his commitment to student success, mentorship, and academic integrity. His work reflected Virginia Tech’s mission to support learners from diverse backgrounds and to create pathways that empower students to thrive. 

“Michael truly embodied Virginia Tech’s motto, Ut Prosim, and believed in the institution’s mission of improving the quality of life of the students he served,” said Rick Sparks, associate vice provost for enrollment management and university registrar.  “You could see this reflected in his work both here on campus and in the New River Valley and Farmville communities.  He loved Virginia Tech, the faculty and staff, and especially our students.”

Herndon earned his bachelor’s degree in communication and his master’s degree in student development in higher education from Howard University. He completed his doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies at Virginia Tech.

Born and raised in Farmville, Virginia, Herndon graduated from Prince Edward County High School. Education and service were deeply rooted in his family. His mother served as an elementary school educator for 37 years, and his father worked as a licensed practical nurse in a psychiatric hospital for more than 30 years.

Herndon is survived by his wife, Jean, and his two sons, Kyle and Sean.

The family will receive family and friends for a time of visitation on Monday, Feb. 9, from 3-6 p.m. at McCoy Funeral Home, 150 Country Club Drive SW, Blacksburg, VA 24060.

A wreath will be placed in Herndon’s honor at War Memorial Chapel on Monday, Feb. 9, in recognition of his enduring contributions to the university community.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

• TimelyCare
  
• Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
• Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
• Employee Assistance Program
  • Anthem at 855-223-9277
  • Aetna at 888-238-6232
  • Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
  • Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174
• Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
• Housing Services at 540-231-6205
• Residential Well-being at 540-231-1139
• Civil Rights Compliance at  540-231-2010
• Cares Program at 540-231-7806
  
• University Ombuds Office at 540-231-3125
• Graduate Office of the Ombudsperson at 540-231-9573